Does Full Coverage Car Insurance Cover Vandalism? How to File a Claim & Get Paid Fast (2026 Guide)

 

Car vandalism is more common than many drivers realize. From keyed paint and slashed tires to broken windows and graffiti, vandalism can leave you with unexpected repair bills that cost hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars.

So the big question is:

Does full coverage car insurance cover vandalism in 2026?

The short answer is yes — but only under comprehensive coverage. Let’s break it down clearly so you understand what’s covered, what’s not, and how to file a claim the right way to get paid fast.

✅ Does Full Coverage Insurance Cover Vandalism?

When people say “full coverage,” they usually mean a policy that includes:

·         Liability insurance

·         Collision coverage

·         Comprehensive coverage

Vandalism is covered under comprehensive insurance, not collision.

Comprehensive coverage protects you against damage caused by things other than a crash, including:

✔ Vandalism
✔ Keyed car damage
✔ Broken windows
✔ Slashed tires
✔ Graffiti
✔ Theft and attempted theft
✔ Fire damage
✔ Natural disasters

If your policy includes comprehensive coverage, vandalism repairs are typically covered — minus your deductible.

🚫 What If You Only Have Liability?

If you only carry your state’s minimum liability insurance:

·         ❌ Vandalism is NOT covered

·         ❌ You’ll pay out of pocket for repairs

Liability insurance only covers damage you cause to others, not damage to your own vehicle.

💵 How Much Will Insurance Pay for Vandalism?

Your insurer will generally pay for repairs up to your vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV), minus your deductible.

Example:

·         Repair bill: $1,500

·         Your deductible: $500

·         Insurance payout: $1,000

If repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value, your car may be declared a total loss, and you’ll receive a payout based on its market value.

📸 What to Do Immediately After Vandalism

If your car has been vandalized, follow these steps quickly to protect your claim:

1️⃣ Document Everything

Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles. Capture:

·         Damage close-ups

·         Wide shots of the entire vehicle

·         Surrounding area (if relevant)

The more evidence you provide, the smoother your claim process.

2️⃣ File a Police Report

Most insurance companies require a police report for vandalism claims. It also helps prevent fraud and supports your case.

Get a copy or report number — you’ll need it.

3️⃣ Contact Your Insurance Company

File a claim as soon as possible through:

·         Your insurer’s mobile app

·         Online portal

·         Customer service hotline

Provide:

·         Date and time of incident

·         Police report number

·         Photos

·         Description of damage

⚡ How to Get Paid Faster in 2026

Insurance companies have improved digital claims processing, but delays still happen. Here’s how to speed things up:

✔ Submit Photos Immediately

The faster you upload documentation, the faster an adjuster can review your claim.

✔ Use Approved Repair Shops

Many insurers have “preferred” repair networks. Choosing one can:

·         Eliminate the need for multiple inspections

·         Speed up payment

·         Guarantee repairs

✔ Avoid Delays in Communication

Respond quickly if the adjuster asks for more details.

✔ Consider Your Deductible First

If damage is minor and repair costs are close to your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim.

🚗 Does Filing a Vandalism Claim Raise Your Rates?

Good news:

Vandalism is considered a non-fault claim, meaning you weren’t responsible.

However:

·         Some insurers may still increase premiums slightly at renewal.

·         Multiple claims within a short period can raise rates.

Each insurer handles claims differently, so check your policy details.

🔎 Common Vandalism Scenarios & Coverage

Here’s how comprehensive coverage typically responds:

Scenario	Covered?
Someone keys your car	✅ Yes
Broken windshield from vandal	✅ Yes
Slashed tires	✅ Yes
Spray-painted doors	✅ Yes
Damage from a car accident	❌ No (collision coverage applies)
Mechanical failure	❌ No

 

💡 Is Comprehensive Coverage Worth It in 2026?

Comprehensive coverage usually costs much less than collision — often just a few dollars more per month.

It may be worth it if:

·         You park in public areas frequently

·         You live in a high-crime area

·         Your vehicle still has significant value

·         You finance or lease your car (often required)

If your car is older and worth less than your deductible + premium, you might reconsider.

🛠 How Long Do Vandalism Claims Take?

In 2026, most claims are processed within:

·         3–7 days for minor damage

·         1–2 weeks for larger repairs

·         Longer if investigation is required

Delays usually happen when:

·         There’s no police report

·         Documentation is incomplete

·         Damage appears suspicious

🚨 What If You Know Who Vandalized Your Car?

If the vandal is identified:

·         You can file a claim under your insurance

·         Your insurer may pursue reimbursement from the responsible party

·         You may be able to recover your deductible

🏁 Final Verdict

Yes — full coverage car insurance covers vandalism, but only because it includes comprehensive coverage.

If you only carry liability insurance, vandalism repairs come out of your pocket.

To get paid fast in 2026:

1.      Document damage immediately

2.      File a police report

3.      Submit your claim quickly

4.      Choose an approved repair shop

5.      Respond promptly to your adjuster

Car vandalism is frustrating, but with the right coverage and quick action, the financial impact doesn’t have to be.